Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

This Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread recipe is a fantastic way to utilize leftover sourdough starter while creating a soft, delicious loaf. Ideal for daily sandwiches or toast, this bread has a comforting flavor and a tender crumb. Its simple preparation makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, ensuring you can enjoy fresh homemade bread anytime.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Bread
• How to Make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Step 1: Mixing & First Rise
• Step 2: Shaping & Second Rise
• Step 3: Baking
• Step 4: Storing
• How to Serve Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Classic Sandwich
• Toast Options
• Breakfast Ideas
• How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Reheating Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I use sourdough discard?
• Can I make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread gluten-free?
• How do I know if my sourdough discard is active?
• What if my Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread doesn’t rise?
• Can I add herbs or spices to my sourdough sandwich bread?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe combines sourdough discard with instant yeast, simplifying the process without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even as a side for soups and salads.
• Great Texture: The combination of sourdough starter and yeast yields a light and fluffy texture that everyone will love.
• Waste Not Want Not: Utilizing sourdough discard means less waste and more delicious bread!
• Customizable: Feel free to add herbs, seeds, or other ingredients to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or fork
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Kitchen towel
• Baking pan (9×5 inches)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when kneading the dough.
• Baking pan: Ensures even baking; using parchment paper helps with easy removal from the pan.

Ingredients

This easy sourdough discard sandwich bread recipe combines leftover starter with commercial yeast for a soft, tender loaf. Perfect for everyday sandwiches, it has a light texture and a simple process that makes it beginner-friendly.

For the Bread

• 120g (½ cup) lukewarm water
• 120g (½ cup) lukewarm milk
• 7g (2 ½ tsp) instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
• 25g (2 tbsp) granulated white sugar
• 406g (3 ¼ cups) bread flour or strong all-purpose flour
• 100g (approx. ½ cup) sourdough discard
• 8g (1 ½ tsp) salt
• 45g (3 tbsp) room-temperature butter

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How to Make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Mixing & First Rise

1. In a large bowl, combine lukewarm water, milk, sugar, and yeast. If using active dry yeast, let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy; if using instant yeast, proceed immediately.
2. Add the flour, sourdough discard, and salt. Mix with a fork or wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the softened butter and knead it into the dough by hand until fully combined.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until soft, smooth, and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
6. Optional cold-proof: Refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.

Step 2: Shaping & Second Rise

1. Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Flatten the dough into a rectangle slightly shorter than the length of the loaf pan; orient it so the long sides are left and right.
3. Fold the top third of the dough toward the center and press along the fold to seal. Repeat this folding process two more times.
4. Place the shaped dough seam-side down in the lined loaf pan. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise until it doubles in size and rises about 1 inch above the pan’s rim.

Step 3: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) while the dough rises.
2. Bake for about 35 minutes until deep golden brown. If needed, tent loosely with foil after 20 minutes if browning too quickly.
3. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped and reaches an internal temperature of 200°F (94°C).
4. Remove from the pan and cool completely before slicing.

Step 4: Storing

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 4-5 days or freeze for up to three months.

Enjoy your homemade Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Sourdough discard sandwich bread is versatile and can elevate any meal. Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch or a fancy dinner, this bread complements various dishes and spreads beautifully.

Classic Sandwich

• Turkey and Avocado: Layer sliced turkey and creamy avocado for a nutritious boost.
• Grilled Cheese: Melt your favorite cheese between two slices for a gooey delight.
• BLT: Combine crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes for a classic favorite.

Toast Options

• Avocado Toast: Top with smashed avocado, salt, and chili flakes for a trendy dish.
• Peanut Butter and Banana: Spread peanut butter on toast and add banana slices for sweetness.
• Hummus and Veggies: A healthy option with hummus spread topped with sliced cucumbers and bell peppers.

Breakfast Ideas

• French Toast: Dip slices in egg mixture and cook until golden for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Breakfast Sandwich: Fill with eggs, cheese, and your choice of sausage or bacon.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

To ensure the best results with your sourdough discard sandwich bread, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your yeast and flour to ensure optimal rise.
• Knead Properly: Kneading develops gluten, which gives bread its structure. Aim for smooth and elastic dough.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep your dough in a warm place during rising; too cold can slow fermentation.
• Avoid Overproofing: Watch the dough closely; overproofed dough can collapse during baking.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool completely to set the texture before cutting into it.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding seeds or herbs to customize flavors to your liking.

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Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

Pairing side dishes with sourdough discard sandwich bread can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Soup du Jour: A warm bowl of soup like tomato or chicken noodle complements the bread perfectly.
2. Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with vinaigrette provide a light contrast to hearty sandwiches.
3. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips add texture alongside sandwiches for a satisfying crunch.
4. Pickles or Olives: Tangy pickles or olives make an excellent side that enhances flavor profiles.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies offer a deliciously healthy complement to any meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances savory flavors with sweetness, making it ideal for lunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sourdough discard sandwich bread, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can lead to inconsistent results. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Skipping the first rise: This step is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Allow the dough to rest until it doubles in size.
• Overproofing the dough: If you let the dough rise too long, it can collapse. Keep an eye on the dough and shape it once it’s doubled but before it starts to deflate.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect how your bread rises and bakes. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Slicing too soon: Cutting into the bread while it’s hot can make it gummy. Let it cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sourdough discard sandwich bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for about 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen bread can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 10-15 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Toast each side of the slice for a few minutes until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use sourdough discard?

You can add sourdough discard to various recipes, including pancakes, waffles, and even pizza dough, enhancing flavor and texture.

Can I make Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjust hydration as necessary based on the blend used.

How do I know if my sourdough discard is active?

Your sourdough discard should have bubbles and a pleasant, tangy aroma. If it’s been sitting too long without feeding, consider discarding it or refreshing it before use.

What if my Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread doesn’t rise?

This could be due to inactive yeast or inadequate rising time. Always check your yeast’s freshness and ensure proper warmth during rising.

Can I add herbs or spices to my sourdough sandwich bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your loaf by adding herbs, spices, or cheese to enhance its flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread recipe is not only easy but also versatile enough for everyday meals. You can personalize it with herbs or seeds, making it suitable for any sandwich creation. Give this delightful recipe a try; you’ll love how simple yet delicious homemade bread can be!

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